Plunkett

The surname Plunkett is of Anglo-Norman origin, derived from the Old French name 'Plonquet'. The name has its roots in the village of Plouguin in Brittany, France. The Plunketts have a long and storied history in British and Irish culture, with branches of the family holding titles such as the Earl of Fingall and Baron Louth.

One of the most notable figures with the surname Plunkett is St. Oliver Plunkett (1629-1681), the Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. He was canonised as a martyr by the Catholic Church in 1975 and is revered for his unwavering commitment to his faith in the face of persecution.

The Plunkett family crest features a gold arm in armour emerging from the side of the shield, holding a broken spear, symbolizing a readiness to engage in battle. The motto 'Fide et Fortitudine' translates to 'By faith and fortitude', reinforcing the family's proud heritage and values.

Throughout the centuries, the Plunkett surname has been associated with loyalty, fortitude, and resilience. Today, individuals bearing the name Plunkett can trace their ancestry to a lineage rich in history and tradition, embodying the essence of British and Irish heritage.

There are approximately 2,658 people named Plunkett in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,355th most common surname in Britain. Around 41 in a million people in Britain are named Plunkett.

Surname type: Diminutive

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Ann
  • Anne
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Julie
  • Lian
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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